Menies, also known as Diktynna, is situated 45 kilometers northwest of Chania, on the northeastern coast of the Rodopos Peninsula and at the mouth of the Foundas Gorge. This secluded beach is characterized by its pebbles and the deep, crystal blue of its waters. Protected from the prevalent winds in the region, Menies offers a haven of solitude, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. With no signs of modern civilization for miles, visitors are advised to come prepared with all necessities. The journey to Menies beach can be challenging, as it involves a 23-kilometer ride on a dirt track, beginning from the village of Rodopos. This road, though unpaved, leads to the beach but isn’t suitable for low-slung vehicles. An alternative route to Menies is via small boats that depart from Platanias harbor.
Menies sits on the historical site of ancient Diktynna, which was the primary temple of the goddess Vritomartis, the Cretan counterpart of Artemis. This sanctuary used to draw worshippers from all over the island, who would travel via a road that linked the sanctuary to the town of Polirinia. Some sections of this paved road are still intact across the Rodopos peninsula. Vritomartis was worshipped here during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Today, a few remnants of the ancient Roman temple can still be seen, although no traces of the Hellenistic temple have been discovered.
Roughly one kilometer southwest of the beach, visitors can explore the ancient monastery of St. George, constructed in the 9th century. The monastery was later abandoned during the pirate invasions, but the 16th-century lookout tower used to spot incoming pirate ships can still be seen in the monastery’s courtyard.
Several small bays can be found between Menies and Afrata, formed at the mouths of small streams and accessible either on foot or by boat. The most picturesque of these is Xeronissia, situated beneath the Saint George monastery.
Beach details
Fine Pebbles
Pebbles
Rocks in places
Blue
Deep blue
Normal
Usually calm
Tranquil
Dirt track
Ideal for snorkeling
Nudism friendly
Rock shade
Location
Menies beach is located at Menies beach, in the Chania region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Get directions:Google Maps·Waze
Frequently asked questions
What is Menies beach?Menies beach is a secluded beach located on the northwest coast of Crete, Greece.How do I get to Menies beach?To get to Menies beach, you can drive or take a boat from the nearby village of Rodopos. The road to the Menies beach is unpaved and can be rough, so it's recommended to have a 4x4 vehicle.Is Menies beach crowded?No, Menies beach is not crowded due to its remote location and difficult access.What activities can I do at Menies beach?At Menies beach, you can swim, sunbathe, and explore the surrounding cliffs and caves. It's also a popular spot for snorkeling and fishing.Is there any accommodation near Menies beach?No, there is no accommodation near Menies beach. The closest village with accommodation options is Rodopos, which is about 7 km away.Is there any restaurant or cafe at Menies beach?No, there are no restaurants or cafes at Menies beach. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.Is Menies beach suitable for families with children?Menies beach is suitable for families with children, but it's important to note that there are no facilities or lifeguards on the Menies beach. The water can also be deep in some areas, so it's important to supervise children at all times.What is the best time to visit Menies beach?The best time to visit Menies beach is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and the sea is calm. It's also recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.What is the water colour of the Menies beach?The Menies beach water colour is deep blue and blue.What type of sand can be found on the Menies beach?The Menies beach has pebbles, fine pebbles, and rocks in places.What is the water depth like at the Menies beach?The Menies beach water depth is normal.What is the surface of the sea like at the Menies beach?The Menies beach sea surface is usually calm.What is the crowd like at the Menies beach?The Menies beach crowds are quiet.What facilities are available at the Menies beach?There are no facilities available at the Menies beach.What is the access to the Menies beach like?The Menies beach access is via a dirt track.What other information should I know about the Menies beach?The Menies beach is nudism friendly, ideal for snorkeling/spearfishing, and has rock shade.
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